After 5 days of focused skiing in New Hampshire, through a variety of terrains and weather conditions (from bright blue skies and pristine groomed slopes, to rising snow swirls and biting winds amidst daunting moguls) my family trooped back home sore but contented.

FORBES: What's "New Year" Anyway?

But Alex Salmond resembled Groucho in other regards - the relaxed demeanour, the contented smile, the sense that he knows more than he lets on.

BBC: Alex Salmond's night at the opera